For those looking to escape the city, less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne will take you to the Mornington Peninsula. In this compact destination, find an abundance of activities for all kinds of traveller, from chic coastal towns, to golf courses and boutique wineries. Our favourites in the region include unwinding in natural geothermal waters at Peninsula Hot Springs, home to more than 70 bathing experiences, and indulging in fine food and wine at Pt. Leo Estate. Don’t forget to visit the extraordinary sculpture park! 

Where to stay: Jackalope

When it comes to wild experiences Down Under, a visit to Kakadu National Park is a must for any nature lover visiting the Northern Territory. At just under 20,000sqkm and an easy drive from Darwin, the dual World-Heritage listed Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s largest. A variety of wildlife call Kakadu home, including saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, a third of Australia’s bird species, brumbies (wild horses) and water buffalo. What’s more, it offers a fascinating glimpse in to the world’s oldest living culture with examples of ancient aboriginal rock art, some of which is more than 20,000 years old!

Where to stay: Cooinda Lodge Kakadu

Only one hour north of Brisbane is the glorious Sunshine Coast, and more specifically, the laidback coastal town of Noosa. Surrounded by nature and the perfect place to unwind, spend days shopping in the boutiques, strolling along Main Beach and dining at the town’s exceptional restaurants. The natural beauty extends beyond the beaches and hinterland to the network of pristine waterways that make up Noosa Everglades, just a 45 minute drive from Noosa and one of the only two everglade systems in the world. Be inspired by spending your morning travelling past ancient landscapes on mirrored waterways and through the subtropical rainforest.

Where to stay: Elysium Noosa Resort

Located five hours north of Adelaide, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park & Outback has long attracted travellers for its dramatic scenery, rich Aboriginal cultural heritage and native wildlife. Voted one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 destinations to visit in 2026, explore this area on foot and by 4WD safari, keeping an eye out for emus, kangaroos and the endangered yellow footed rock wallaby. At Rawnsley Park Station, a historic working sheep station, stay in an Oasis Eco-Villa (opening Nov 26), offering sustainable luxury, or for something truly unique, book a heli-camping experience where you will fly above the natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound before sleeping out under a million stars.  

Where to stay: Rawnsley Park Station

About 40% of Tasmania is protected by national parks and World-Heritage wilderness, so make sure you escape the island's cities and explore Cradle Mountain National Park. Only a two and a half hour drive from Launceston, the national park is famed for its spectacular scenery from rugged mountain peaks to glistening lakes and verdant rainforest. Your chances of seeing Tasmania's most famous resident, the Tasmanian devil, is best at Devils@Cradle, where you can get up close and personal with this iconic creature.

Where to stay: Cradle Mountain Hotel

North of Sydney lies the boutique beach town of Byron Bay. A world apart from the bustle of city life, this legendarily laidback locale is an essential stop for anyone travelling Australia’s East Coast. In a country famous for scenery and sunsets, the views from Byron’s shoreline still take some beating. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins whilst strolling the scenic coastal path to its famous Cape Byron lighthouse. You may also be tempted to partake in some yoga, or perhaps pick up a board and try your hand at the Bondi Surf Experience. 

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Byron

North of Perth lies the marine wonderland of Ningaloo Reef, the largest fringing reef in the world. This otherworldly phenomenon lies just metres from the shore and is famous for its direct accessibility from the beach. Ningaloo Reef is home to over 500 species of tropical fish and 200 species of coral as well as the gentle whale shark. Swimming with these gentle, slow-moving giants is sure to be one for the bucket list.

Where to stay: Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef